In a crazy game, Barcelona is still alive in the Copa del Rey. They beat Granada 3-5 in a day that lasted until late. If it is not for Alba’s goal at 92 ′ there would be a scandal in Spain. Messi gets into the semifinals and breathes for now. The project that is destined to end is still alive.
Today Barcelona showed two very different faces. The forward had a tremendous afternoon, with ideas, chances and goals. The defense for its part did everything the rearguard of a world-class team should not do. The culés were responsible for their goals and those of Granada.
First it was a rude mistake by Umtiti, who is nothing more than the shadow of the player he was a few seasons ago. Barca failed at the start and Granada did not forgive. Kennedy opened the account at 33 ‘. Messi was already lowering his head.
After more of the same, Barcelona attacked with Pedri, Messi and Trincao. Granada was entrusted to its goalkeeper, Aaaron Escandell, who had the best game of his career.
In that desperate search to tie, the second came from Granada. Roberto Soldado, a warrior of a thousand battles, beat Ter Stegen and put Koeman’s men on the edge of the precipice.
And when those of Andalusia were already celebrating, the lock broke. In the blink of an eye, the dream turned into a nightmare. At 88 ‘he discounted Barca with an own goal and at 92’ Jordi Alba decreed the tie. Barcelona went to extra time once again, as against Cornellà and as in the Super Cup.
Justice? Perhaps. The blaugrana played better, but they convinced very little. Something that has become customary in the team led by Koeman.
In overtime Granada succumbed to the pressure. Griezmann scored first and then De Jong. Before the Dutchman’s goal, the match was tied by the locals with a penalty, but it was a simple slip, because those from southern Spain no longer had the mark to fight the match. His thing was during the 90s. They did not appear in extra time.
In 113 ′ Alba scored her double and gave Barca an important balm. Breathe Koeman.
Now Messi and company are preparing for the Copa del Rey semifinals. Sevilla and Levante are already in the top four. Betis de Bravo play with Bilbao tomorrow to define the last quota.